It's an absolute pleasure to help you navigate the world of American Airlines online baggage check! Many travelers find the process of checking bags at the airport a bit stressful, especially with queues and last-minute scrambling. Thankfully, American Airlines offers a convenient online option that can save you precious time and even money. Let's dive in and make your next trip a breeze!
Your Comprehensive Guide to Checking Bags Online with American Airlines
Checking your bags online with American Airlines is a smart move that can significantly streamline your airport experience. This detailed guide will walk you through every step, from understanding eligibility to getting those bag tags printed.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Go Digital? Understanding Eligibility
First things first, let's see if online bag check is the right fit for your upcoming American Airlines journey. Not all flights or passenger types are eligible, so it's crucial to check this upfront.
A. Online Check-in Prerequisite:
You must be able to complete your flight check-in online or via the American Airlines app first. This is the gateway to adding and paying for your checked bags. Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure and closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 90 minutes before international flights.
B. Itinerary Specifics:
Domestic Flights: Generally, if you're flying within the U.S., Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, you'll find online bag check is readily available.
International Flights: Online bag check is often available for international flights, but be aware of potential restrictions or variations based on your destination. Always double-check the specific requirements for your international itinerary.
Codeshare Flights: If your flight is a codeshare (meaning it's marketed by American Airlines but operated by another airline, like British Airways or Iberia), you typically need to check in with the operating carrier. This means online bag check for these flights might need to happen on the operating airline's website or app, or directly at their counter. It's crucial to verify the operating carrier of your first flight.
C. Passenger Type Considerations:
Basic Economy: While you can check bags with a Basic Economy fare, you will almost certainly incur a fee for your first checked bag, even on domestic flights, and potentially higher fees for international routes. The online payment option often provides a slight discount compared to paying at the airport.
AAdvantage® Status/Credit Card Holders: If you have AAdvantage® elite status (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum) or an eligible American Airlines co-branded credit card, you may be entitled to free checked bags. Ensure your AAdvantage® number is linked to your reservation for these benefits to apply automatically during online check-in.
Special Circumstances: If you're traveling with special items (e.g., oversized sports equipment, musical instruments that exceed standard dimensions/weight, or require special assistance), you might need to process your bag check at the airport counter. While you can often pay for standard bags online, complex or oversized items might require agent assistance.
Step 2: The Digital Gateway – Checking In Online
Once you've confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to initiate your online check-in. This is where you'll indicate your intention to check bags.
A. Choose Your Platform:
American Airlines Website (aa.com): This is the most common and robust option for online check-in and bag management.
American Airlines Mobile App: The app offers a convenient and user-friendly experience, allowing you to check in, get your boarding pass, and add bags directly from your smartphone.
B. Accessing Your Reservation:
Via aa.com:
Go to the American Airlines website (aa.com).
Click on the "Check In" tab or navigate to "My Trips."
You'll be prompted to enter your Last Name and one of the following:
6-character confirmation code (found on your booking confirmation email).
AAdvantage® number.
E-ticket number.
Click "Find Trip" or "Check In."
Via the American Airlines Mobile App:
Open the American Airlines app on your device.
Log in to your AAdvantage® account if you have one, or select "Find Trip" and enter your last name and confirmation code.
Your upcoming trips should be displayed. Select the relevant flight.
C. Initiating the Check-in Process:
Follow the on-screen prompts. You'll typically confirm your flight details, review passenger information, and agree to any necessary terms and conditions.
The system will then guide you through the check-in flow, asking about travel requirements and other pre-flight questions.
Step 3: Declaring and Paying for Your Bags
This is the core of online bag check! Here, you'll tell American Airlines how many bags you plan to check and settle any associated fees.
A. Selecting Your Bags:
During the online check-in process, after confirming your personal details, you will encounter a section dedicated to baggage.
You'll be asked how many bags you intend to check. Select the appropriate number for each passenger on your reservation.
B. Understanding and Paying Fees:
The system will automatically calculate any applicable baggage fees based on your fare type, AAdvantage® status, eligible credit cards, and destination.
For domestic travel within the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, the first checked bag typically costs $35 when paid online (it's $40 at the airport). The second bag is usually $45.
Fees for international travel can vary significantly. Always review the displayed charges carefully.
The benefit of paying online: American Airlines often offers a slight discount for paying checked bag fees online versus at the airport. This is a great way to save a few dollars per bag.
You will be prompted to enter your payment information (credit card details) to finalize the baggage payment.
Important Note on Bag Limits: American Airlines generally allows up to 10 checked bags per passenger, but fees increase substantially with each additional bag. Be mindful of weight and size restrictions for each bag to avoid additional overweight or oversized bag fees at the airport. Standard checked bags generally have a maximum dimension of 62 inches (length + width + height) and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kgs) for Economy/Main Cabin. First and Business Class typically allow 70 lbs (32 kgs) for free bags.
Step 4: Printing Your Boarding Pass and Bag Tags
Once you've successfully checked in and paid for your bags online, you're almost done! The next step is to get your necessary documents.
A. Boarding Pass Options:
You'll have the option to:
Print your boarding pass at home: This is a good idea if you prefer a physical copy.
Download a mobile boarding pass: This will be stored on your phone in the American Airlines app or your mobile wallet. This is highly recommended for convenience.
Email your boarding pass: Send it to yourself or a travel companion.
B. The Crucial Step: Express Bag Tags:
American Airlines offers an "Express Bag Tag" service at many airports. While you check in and pay online, you still need to physically print your bag tags.
How it works: After completing online check-in and paying for your bags, American Airlines' system will prepare your bag tag information. When you arrive at the airport, you'll go to a self-service kiosk.
At the kiosk, you'll scan your printed or mobile boarding pass.
The kiosk will then automatically print your checked bag tags.
Attach these tags securely to the handle of each of your checked bags.
C. Proceeding to Bag Drop:
Once your bags are tagged, proceed to the designated "Bag Drop" area. These lines are typically much shorter than the full-service check-in counters.
An American Airlines agent will quickly verify your bag tags, confirm dimensions/weight (though this is primarily caught at the kiosk), and send your bags on their way.
Step 5: Final Preparations Before Leaving for the Airport
Even with online bag check, a few final checks ensure a smooth departure.
A. Double-Check Baggage Policies:
Reconfirm American Airlines' latest baggage policies on their official website (
aa.com/baggage Remember, certain items like lithium batteries (spare ones), e-cigarettes, and some other hazardous materials are strictly prohibited in checked bags and must be carried in your carry-on.
Make sure your bags adhere to the maximum weight and size limits to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
B. Label Your Luggage:
Beyond the airline's printed tag, it's highly recommended to have your own luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address clearly visible. This helps if the airline tag gets damaged or lost.
C. Arrive with Ample Time:
Even with online check-in and Express Bag Tags, allow yourself plenty of time at the airport.
For domestic flights, American Airlines recommends arriving at least 2 hours before departure. You must have bags checked at least 45 minutes before departure.
For international flights, allow at least 3 hours before departure. Bags must be checked at least 60 minutes before departure (or even more for specific airports like AMS, ATH, AUA, BCN, BRS, EZE, etc., which have 75-minute cutoffs).
Factor in security checkpoint lines, especially during peak travel times.
This step-by-step guide should empower you to confidently check your bags online with American Airlines, making your travel experience much more efficient and enjoyable. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check bag fees for American Airlines?
You can check American Airlines bag fees on their official website (aa.com) under the "Baggage" or "Checked Bag Policy" section. The fees vary based on your destination, fare type (e.g., Basic Economy, Main Cabin), and any AAdvantage® elite status or eligible credit cards you hold. You'll also see the exact fees displayed during the online check-in process when you indicate the number of bags you plan to check.
How to avoid paying American Airlines baggage fees?
You can often avoid American Airlines baggage fees by having AAdvantage® elite status (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum), holding an eligible American Airlines co-branded credit card that offers free checked bags, or by purchasing a higher fare class that includes free checked bags (like Business or First Class). Additionally, try to pack light and only bring a carry-on and personal item if possible, as these are typically free.
How to add bags to an existing American Airlines reservation online?
If you've already checked in online, you can often go back into your reservation on aa.com or the American Airlines app and manage your checked bags. Look for options like "Modify Trip" or "Add Bags" within your checked-in itinerary. If you haven't checked in yet, the option to add bags will be presented during the initial online check-in process.
How to retrieve my bag tags after paying online with American Airlines?
After paying for your bags online, you will retrieve your physical bag tags at a self-service kiosk at the airport. Simply scan your boarding pass (printed or mobile) at the kiosk, and it will print your pre-paid bag tags for you to attach to your luggage. Then proceed to the bag drop.
How to know the weight and size limits for checked bags on American Airlines?
For most regions, American Airlines standard checked bags must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm) in total linear dimensions (length + width + height) and weigh no more than 50 lbs (23 kgs) for Economy/Main Cabin. For First/Business Class, the weight limit for free bags is usually 70 lbs (32 kgs). Oversized or overweight bags will incur additional fees. Always refer to the "Checked Bag Policy" on aa.com for detailed and up-to-date information.
How to check bags for a connecting flight on American Airlines?
If all your flights are on a single American Airlines ticket or a single reservation with oneworld® partners, your bags will generally be "through-checked" to your final destination, meaning you won't need to reclaim and re-check them during your connection (unless it's an international arrival into the U.S. where you must clear customs). If you have separate tickets, you will likely need to claim your bags at your connecting airport and re-check them for your next flight.
How to check in online for American Airlines international flights?
You can check in online for international American Airlines flights starting 24 hours and up to 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time via aa.com or the American Airlines app. Be prepared to enter passport and visa information as required for your destination.
How to handle oversized or overweight bags with American Airlines online?
While you can often pay for standard checked bags online, oversized or overweight bags typically require assistance at the airport counter. The online system might allow you to declare them, but the final assessment and payment for the excess fees will often happen when an agent or kiosk measures and weighs your bag at the airport.
How to check bags if I have an American Airlines codeshare flight?
For codeshare flights (marketed by American Airlines but operated by another airline), you generally need to check in with the operating carrier. This means you might need to go to the operating airline's website or use their app to check in and manage your bags. Their baggage policies and fees will apply. Always identify the operating carrier of your first flight.
How to pay for extra bags on American Airlines online?
During the online check-in process, when you reach the baggage section, you will be prompted to select the number of bags you intend to check. If you indicate more than your free allowance, the system will automatically calculate the fees for the extra bags, and you can pay for them with a credit card directly through the American Airlines website or app.
